Janteloven: The Law of Jante
“You’re not to think you are anything special.” Janteloven—more mindset than law—helps explain Danish modesty, equality and teamwork at home and at work.
What is Janteloven?
📜 Unwritten code
Not a legal statute but a social mindset about modesty and equality.
🤝 Community first
Avoid showing off; value teamwork and shared credit.
🇩🇰 Lasting influence
Still visible in humor, etiquette and decision‑making in Denmark.
The ten rules
1️⃣ You’re not to think you are anything special.
Core message: stay humble and avoid self‑promotion.
2️⃣ You’re not to think you are as good as us.
No one stands above the group—titles and wealth don’t grant rank.
3️⃣ You’re not to think you are smarter than us.
Expertise is welcome; arrogance isn’t.
4️⃣ You’re not to imagine yourself better than us.
Keep a grounded, down‑to‑earth self‑image.
5️⃣ You’re not to think you know more than us.
Share knowledge collaboratively, not competitively.
6️⃣ You’re not to think you are more important than us.
Respect for all; no special treatment.
7️⃣ You’re not to think you are good at anything.
Talents are for contributing, not status.
8️⃣ You’re not to laugh at us.
Avoid mockery; keep critique kind and private.
9️⃣ You’re not to think anyone cares about you.
Put the group’s needs before personal glory.
🔟 You’re not to think you can teach us anything.
Offer advice gently; invite dialogue.
Cultural impact
🏡 Everyday life
Explains low‑key small talk and preference for privacy.
🎉 Social events
Sharing the spotlight—speeches and toasts include everyone.
🧒 School values
Group work and collaboration are emphasised from early years.
Janteloven at work
🏢 Flat hierarchies
Consensus‑driven decisions; leaders avoid grandstanding.
💬 Straight talk
Speak up, but with humility and respect.
🌍 International teams
Understated style can feel modest, but builds trust.
Debate & modern views
⚖️ Criticism
Some argue it limits ambition and innovation.
💡 Change
Younger Danes push for balance: confidence without arrogance.
📚 Read more
Useful resources
🌐 VisitDenmark
📖 Sandemose’s novel
📝 Cultural explainers
Related on exploringdenmark
🇩🇰 Danish humor
🧣 Hygge
🤝 Culture & etiquette
⚖️ Work‑life balance
Frequently asked questions
❓ Is Janteloven a real law?
No—it’s cultural, not legal, but it heavily informs social norms.
🌍 Is it unique to Denmark?
Common across the Nordics; the name is Danish‑Norwegian.
🧑💼 Does it affect expats?
Yes—understanding it helps you read the room in meetings and social settings.
📣 Do Danes still embrace it?
Opinions vary—many value its equality, others find it limiting.
👶 Do children learn it?
Schools emphasise collaboration and inclusion, echoing its spirit.
🌱 How can I fit in?
Be modest, share credit, and keep bragging low‑key.
Want help decoding Danish culture?
Tell us your situation (study, work, family) and what you’ve observed—we’ll suggest practical ways to adapt without losing yourself.